It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Steve Benson, the former chief executive of Two Saints.
Beginning his journey as a housing trainee in Hertfordshire in 1975, Steve was inspired by the television drama ‘Cathy Come Home’ and his ensuing career in the housing sector spanned some five decades. Steve was all about making a difference to people’s lives and he imbued this approach in all who he met and worked with.
Joining Two Saints as chief executive in 2014, Steve led the organisation through a period of remarkable growth and transformation. Under his visionary leadership, Two Saints nearly doubled in size, and expanded the breadth of its supported housing services.
Steve said of his time at Two Saints,
“While I’ve successfully led organisations owning large numbers of homes, the role I’ve enjoyed most in my career is leading Two Saints. My work here has affected more lives than any other.”
Charlotte Buckingham, executive director of client services, worked with Steve for much of this time and reflects,
“Steve was a brilliant boss who always had a smile on his face. His hard work and visionary leadership have shaped Two Saints into the organisation it is today. His legacy will continue to inspire us all.”
Richard Gammage, chief executive at Two Saints reflected on Steve’s legacy, saying,
“Steve will be greatly missed by all those who had the privilege to know and work with him. His empathy for our staff, clients and sector was an inspiration, and endures and he will always hold a special place here.”
Janice Hughes, executive director of investment, assets and risk, remembers her time working with Steve with fondness, stating,
“Steve always said his time at Two Saints involved the best years of his career. I’m sad to know that we won’t see Steve again, it’s a real loss.”
Steve’s impact extended beyond Two Saints; he was recognised with honorary life membership from the Chartered Institute of Housing where he was a former President, as well as chairing both their policy and professional boards and was their treasurer for many years. He also dedicated his time to serving on the Board of Homeless Link and, more recently, as Chair for Grand Union Housing Group.
Julie Toben, Chair of the Board at Two Saints commented,
“The Board and all at Two Saints have been deeply saddened by the news of Steve’s passing. Steve had a true passion for social housing and homelessness and his work has made a positive impact throughout the sector; he has made a difference to literally thousands of people’s lives. We are privileged to have worked with him. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.”
Steve passed away peacefully on Sunday 14 April 2024, surrounded by the love and support of his family. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with them and with his many friends and colleagues during this difficult time.